French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has arrived in the Central African Republic, marking the first visit by a senior French official in seven years. He was welcomed by his Central African counterpart Sylvie Notefe as part of renewed efforts by Paris to restore diplomatic relations with Bangui.
The visit follows the resumption of political dialogue in April 2024 between French President Emmanuel Macron and CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, indicating a gradual normalization of relations after a period of strained ties.
Barrot is expected to meet President Touadéra, who recently returned from a week-long visit to Moscow, where he held discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Amid ongoing instability in the Central African Republic, the government has increasingly relied on Russian Wagner Group mercenaries for security support. In return, the group has reportedly secured lucrative contracts in the country’s gold, diamond and forestry sectors, highlighting growing geopolitical competition for influence in the region.
Source: Newstimehub
